Some call it postcard perfect with its large antebellum houses and mansions sprung up along cobblestone streets, gardens of magnolias and hibiscus, church spires, and countryside plantations. The port city of Charleston is steeped in more than 300 years of history: this is where the first shot of the American Civil War was fired.

Though the city has moved into the modern era with renowned restaurants serving Lowcountry cuisine, vibrant antique stores, and the annual art explosion known as the Spoleto Festival, it remains a throwback to an earlier era. Still in existence is America’s first golf course and club, dating to 1786. Dubbed the “best-mannered” city in the U.S., things seem to move more slowly in Charleston than in other places. The Spanish moss-draped live oak trees and historic pastel-colored homes along the waterfront must be savored on foot. Horse and buggy rides are de rigeur.

With its semitropical climate, the city is warm year round though spring is the favored season. Then, azaleas and jasmine scent the air and the dogwoods blossom with color.

For more information go to: www.charleston.worldweb.com or www.charlestoncvb.com.